Randy Newman’s song helped define 1968, a year marked by sadness and irony. Now, 50 years later, what song will reflect 2018?
NOTE: RE is available during the first service only.
Speaker: Mel Harkrader Pine
Service
TrUUmpism
Yes, that’s a controversial sermon title, but, no, this will not be a political sermon. It will be, Mel hopes, a fresh way of looking at the divisions in the country and what those divisions may teach us as Americans and as Unitarian Universalists.
Service
Principles and Sources of Unitarian Universalism
This sermon explores how Unitarian Universalism defines its identity through a broad collection of principles and sources rather than a singular dogma. The speaker emphasizes that while the seven principles guide behavior, the six sources provide the movement’s spiritual foundation by drawing wisdom from world religions, science, and prophetic individuals. A significant portion of the sermon focuses on the second source, which honors the “words and deeds of prophetic women and men” who confront injustice with love. To illustrate this, the speaker shares a moving personal account of Alice Johnson, a civil rights activist whose life and tragic death embodied these values. Ultimately, the sermon highlights that this faith celebrates a diverse search for truth, finding sacred meaning in both ancient traditions and modern lives of courage.
Service
religUUsity
In this sermon, the speaker uses the Jewish Shema and the mezuzah as metaphors to examine the spiritual identity of Unitarian Universalism. He argues that the faith has become a “religion of doing” focused on social justice and announcements at the expense of “being” and deep religious connection. Drawing comparisons to the rapid growth of Buddhism, the text highlights how a lack of symbolism and tradition contributes to stagnant membership numbers. The speaker challenges congregants to stop distancing themselves from the term “religious” and to address internal cultures that can feel judgmental or exclusive to newcomers. Ultimately, he calls for a more spiritually inclusive community that prioritizes personal belief and shared humanity over political litmus tests or administrative tasks.
Service
Even these things may seem pleasant
In this poignant sermon, a grieving father reflects on the sudden death of his son and his own journey toward spiritual healing. He explores the Unitarian Universalist faith, critiquing the movement for becoming a political “cocoon” that often alienates those with diverse theological or private beliefs. By sharing his personal history of trauma and loss, the speaker advocates for a more inclusive environment where members feel safe discussing miracles, God, and the afterlife. He ultimately finds comfort in the concept of quantum entanglement as a metaphor for the enduring connection between the living and the dead. Through the lens of his son’s Latin tattoo, he emphasizes that while tragedy is never pleasant, the shared humanity of grief can lead to profound communal love.
Service
My Looseleaf Bible
This sermon explores the personal nature of Unitarian Universalism, highlighting the faith’s emphasis on individual responsibility in defining one’s own spiritual beliefs. Following a profound personal loss, the speaker reflects on how religious community provides essential support and solace during times of grief. Central to this journey is the concept of a “loose-leaf bible,” a customizable and evolving collection of wisdom, stories, and songs that resonate with an individual’s soul. By documenting personal “miracles” and inspirations, the speaker encourages a continuous spiritual practice that remains open to growth and change. Ultimately, the sermon illustrates that while individuals must do the hard work of seeking truth, they are never truly alone when supported by a loving community.
Service
Investing in Your Beliefs
This sermon presents a speaker reflecting on their personal journey with Unitarian Universalism, particularly through the lens of socially responsible investing and the speaker’s own contrarian biases. The speaker recounts their time working for Mobile Oil during the apartheid era in South Africa and the contrasting views within their church regarding divestment. They explore the complexities of boycotts and investment screens as tools for enacting change, contrasting them with the idea of impact investing. The speaker emphasizes the Unitarian Universalist approach of encouraging individual thought and action based on personal values rather than strict dogma. Ultimately, the sermon promotes thoughtful consideration of how personal financial decisions align with one’s beliefs and the pursuit of a better world.
Service
Community
Summary:
This sermon explores the multifaceted nature of community, particularly within a Unitarian Universalist context, acknowledging both its supportive and challenging aspects. The discourse emphasizes that communities, like individuals, are imperfect and can cause pain. Personal anecdotes illustrate the speaker’s evolving understanding of community, from initial disillusionment to recognizing its potential for spiritual growth through navigating difficulties. The speaker draws parallels between religious community and marriage, highlighting the inevitability of conflict and the importance of managing one’s reaction to it. The story of Kisa Gotami is used to emphasize the universality of grief and the power of shared experiences in fostering compassion. Ultimately, the message encourages embracing the messiness of community, finding value in every member, and learning from moments of hurt to foster personal and spiritual development.
Service
Grace
Summary:
This sermon explores the concept of grace through narratives and reflections. It begins with a modern parable of a homeless man’s unexpected lottery win, connecting it to Philip Yancey’s interpretation of grace. It examines the story of John Newton, the author of “Amazing Grace,” and his transformation from a slave trader to an abolitionist. It then interprets grace as a powerful, universally available force that offers second chances and unexpected gifts. The speaker suggests grace can appear through forgiveness, suffering, and welcoming lost souls home. Ultimately, the speaker argues grace is found by surrendering to the universe, embracing opportunities, and recognizing the potential for healing and transformation.
- 1
- 2